Carlos Medina, a small business owner, TV personality and the CEO of the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, has told Democratic gubernatorial nominee Mikie Sherrill that he does not wish to be a considered for the role of Lt. Governor, BINJE has learned.
Medina, who told the campaign last week, said he was honored to be under consideration. But, more so, he hopes other Hispanics will be considered, too.
“It is a recognition of how important and impactful the Hispanic community has become in the state of New Jersey,” he said. “I hope that I am one of a hundred Hispanics being considered, but I fear I am one of only three or four.
“I am not the right person at this time.”
Medina, 58, was vetted to be Kim Guadagno’s running mate eight years ago — going through extensive interviews and financial background checks. He ultimately was not asked.
Medina said there are a number of factors that led to his decision to not go through the process again, including:
- His age: “I’m at the point that I want to be slowing down, not speeding up,” he said.
- His family: “I recently lost my father, and I realized I want to dedicate more time to family,” he said.
- His passions: “I would have to step away from my work at the chamber and as host of ‘Que Pasa’ — those are both very important to me.”
Then there’s this: Medina said he’s not sure he would be accepted by all party officials, as he has not been an unquestioned supporter through the years. Remember, Guadagno was the Republican nominee for governor.
Medina said he does not necessarily identify with either party — choosing instead to say he is loyal to whoever best serves Hispanics. It is a belief many in the Hispanic community have.
“The Hispanic vote is up for grabs,” he said.
It’s a segment of the electorate candidates would be wise to connect with.
In addition to being a quarter of the population of the state, Hispanics are a group with tremendous economic power. In New Jersey alone, Hispanics have a GDP of more than $1 billion.
That’s why Medina is hopeful more Hispanics will be considered for the top roles in state government.
“Our strength and influence in the state is only going to continue to grow,” he said.
Sherrill and Republican nominee Jack Ciattarelli have until July 28 to make a decision on their running mate.
It is not clear if Sherrill is targeting an elected official for a business leader.
The New Jersey Globe reported last week that State Senators Troy Singleton (Delran) and Benjie Wimberly (Paterson) have told Sherrill they do not wish to be considered.
